My ‘Novel’ Account of Human Possibility
Whenever I look at my body of multi-genre work in English, the underlying human possibility intrigues me no end, and why not for my mother tongue Telugu, touted as the Italian of the East, has no linguistic connection with it whatsoever.
To start with, I was born into a land-owning family in Kothalanka, a remote Indian village, of Andhra Pradesh to be precise that is after the British had folded their colonial tents from the sub-continent, but much before the rural education mechanism was geared up therein. It was thus the circumstances of my birth enabled me to escape from the tiresome chores of primary schooling till I had a nine-year fill of an unbridled childhood, embellished by village plays and enriched by grandma’s tales, made all the more appealing by her uncanny storytelling ability. Added to that, as my great great maternal grandfather happened to be a poet laureate at the court of a princeling of yore, maybe their genes together strived to infuse their muses in me their progeny.
However, as the English plants that Lord Macaulay planted in the Hindustani soil hadn’t taken roots in the hinterland till then, it’s the native tongues that held the sway in the best part of that ancient land. No wonder then, well into my secondary schooling, leave alone constructing an English sentence, whenever I had to read one, I used to be afflicted by an unceasing stammer. Maybe, it was at the behest of the unseen hand of human possibility, or owing to his foresight, and /or both that, in time, my father had shifted our family base to the cosmopolitan town of Kakinada to admit me into Class X at the McLaren High School. And with that began my affair with the English language, facilitated by Chinnababu, my classmate, which, courtesy Abbimavayya, my maternal uncle, found fruition in the continental fiction, in translation, however to the detriment of my mechanical engineering education to the chagrin of my vexed father.
Nevertheless, even as the Penguin classics imbibed in me the love for language that is besides broadening my outlook of life, my nature enabled me to explore the possibilities of youth. That’s not all, all through; it was as if destiny tended to afford my life to examine its intrigues while fiction enabled me to handle its vicissitudes with fortitude that stood me in good stead throughout. Besides, in those days of yore, as letter-writing was in vogue, I was wont to embellish my missives to friends and the loved-ones with the insights the former induced and the emotions the latter stirred in me. So to say, all those letters that my latter-day novels carry owe more to my ingrained habit than to the narrative need of my muse.
Providentially, when I was thirty-three, my eyes and mind seemed to have combined to explore the effect of the led on the leader, and when the resultant ‘Organizational ethos and good Leadership’ was published in The Hindu; I experienced the inexplicable thrill of seeing one’s name in print. Enthused thus by the fortuitous development, I began to articulate my views on general, and materials management, general insurance, politics, and, not to speak of, life and literature in over a score of published articles. But fiction writing was nowhere near my pen and the thought of becoming a novelist was beyond my horizon for Leo Tolstoy, Fyodor Dostoyevsky, Nikolai Gogol, Ivan Turgenev, Emily Zola, Gustav Flaubert et al (I hadn’t read Marcel Proust and Robert Musil by then) were, and are, my literary deities, and how dare I, their devotee, to envision myself in the sanctum sanctorum of the novel.
All the same, when I was forty-four, having been fascinated by the manuscript of a satirical novella penned by one Bhibhas Sen, an Adman, with whom I had been on the same intellectual page for the past four years then, it occurred to me, ‘when he could, I can for sure’. It was as if Sen had driven away the ghosts of those literary greats that came to shadow my muse but as life would have it, it was another matter that not wanting to foul his work, as he hadn’t obliged the willing publisher to pad it up to a ‘publishable size’, that manuscript remained in the literary limbo.
So, with my muse thus unshackled, I set to work on the skeletal idea of Pardonables, the working title of Benign Flame, with the conviction that for fiction to impact readers, it should be the soulful rendering of characters rooted in their native soil, not the hotchpotch of the local and foreign caricatures sketched on a hybrid canvas, the then norm of the Indian Writing in English. Yet, it took me a full fortnight to make the narrative flowing with the opening – ‘That winter night in the mid-seventies, the Janata Express was racing rhythmically on its tracks towards the coast of Andhra Pradesh. As its headlight pierced the darkness of the fertile plains, the driver honked the horn as though to awake the sleepy environs to the spectacle of the speeding train.’
However, from then on, it was as though a ‘novel’ chemistry had developed between my muse and the mood of its characters that shaped its fictional course, and soon I came to believe that I had something exceptional to offer to the world of letters, nay the world itself. So, not wanting to die till I gave it to it, I tended to go to lengths to preserve my life that was till I delivered it in nine months with a ‘top of the world’ feeling at that. Then, when one Spencer Critchley, an American critic, thought that – “It’s a refreshing surprise to discover that the story will not trace a fall into disaster for Roopa, given that many writers might have habitually followed that course with a wife who strays into extramarital affairs” – I felt vindicated about my unique contribution. Just the same, as there were no takers to it among the Indian publishers and the Western agents, I was left with no heart to bring my pen to any more paper (those were the pre-keyboard days) though my head was swirling with many a novel idea, triggered by my examined life lived in an eventful manner.
Nevertheless, sometime later, that was after I happened to browse through a published book; I had resumed writing, owing altogether to a holistic reason: while it was the quality of Sen’s unpublished work that set me on a fictional course from which I was derailed by the publishers’ apathy, strangely, it was the paucity of any literary worth in that published book that spurred me back onto the novel track to pursue the pleasure of writing for its own sake. It’s thus; I could reach the literary stations of - Crossing the Mirage and Jewel-less Crown that was before my pen, in the wake of the hotly debated but poorly analyzed post-Godhra communal riots, took a non-fictional turn with the Puppets of Faith.
Thereafter, as if wanting me to lend my literary hand to other genres, my muse heralded me into the arena of translation, ushered me onto the unknown stage, put me on a stream of consciousness, took me to crime scenes, dragged me into the by-lanes of short stories, and driven me into the novella fold. However, as a prodigal son, I took to my first steps into the Telugu short story field with my ‘Missteps’ తప్పటడుగులు.
Whatever, it was Michael Hart, the founder of the Project Gutenberg, who first lent his e-hand to my books ever in search of readers. But who would have thought that life held such literary possibilities in the English language for a rustic Telugu lad reared in the rural Andhra, even in the post-colonial India? So, the possibilities of life are indeed novel and seemingly my life has crystallized itself in my body of work before death could dissipate it.
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BS Murthy is an Indian novelist, playwright, short story and non-fiction writer, translator, a 'little' thinker and a budding philosopher with "Addendum to Evolution: Origins of the world" published in The Examined Life On-Line Philosophy Journal, Vol. 05 Issue 18, Summer 2004 that's republished in Academia.edu. https://www.academia.edu/21434144/Addendum_to_Evolution_Origins_of_the_World
All his fictional work was borne out of his conviction that for fiction to impact readers, it should be the soulful rendering of characters rooted in their native soil but not the hotchpotch of local and alien caricatures sketched on a hybrid canvas.
His body of work in varied genres in the public domain in umpteen sites can be Googled
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The Reluctant Author
The Reluctant Author
I hadn’t gone looking to write a book. And although I love to write, especially poetry, and editorial responses of educational articles, writing can be arduous and was never cathartic for me. I would rather take pictures. My dream was to be a veterinarian, to heal, support positive training, and be the voice for those who spoke a different language. God had that same plan, albeit a very different path.
Life can be messy. It can flip your world upside down in an instant and force you into situations that could ultimately break you if you let them. My family experienced one such life altering event when my little brother, Bruce, was born. He wasn’t like David, my other brother, or me. You see, Bruce had down syndrome. While our parents struggled to come to terms with what this meant for their future and the challenges they would now
have to face, David and I saw our newest sibling for who he was – a special, wonderful gift. I was an immediate advocate fighting to keep him from being given away and then for inclusion despite inconveniences
or discomfort for those, speaking a misunderstood language. After sending my brother to live in a KenCrest Group Home, he slowly began to became an afterthought for my parents, and I didn’t want that to be the case with the rest of my family. He was involved in David and my life and we in his, and he was just as committed to us as we were to him. We all flourished alongside him, and I wanted to honor him and his story.
My plan to include Bruce with others was to open his world. We accomplished so much more, my baby brother and I. We opened theirs.
Living only a forty- minute drive from Bruce’s group home allowed for Sunday visits and family dinners with my daughter, husband and me, phone calls with his nieces living in Florida and France, and holiday visits with my son’s family when they visited from Florida. However, what I feared most, his becoming an afterthought, happened after my move to Florida. No one made time to see him, I was no longer there, the voice with whom to reckon.
Now with his death, I was more determined than ever to keep my brother’s memory alive so my children, grandchildren, nieces, and close friends who knew of him, but never met him would remember Brucie. Vail, Colorado, my home during the summer months was my refuge when Bruce was diagnosed with cancer, COVID preventing any visits to the hospital but guardianship offered constant communication with doctors and hospital staff. Nothing got done without my approval, constant support from the nurse and personal advocate from KenCrest readily available. I hiked those trails with a vengeance, miles of climbing, listening to The Killers, dancing with the forest nymphs, crying and reliving our life together. My Inspirational Moment took hold and I was driven to write this memoir about my life with my very special brother, filled with these stories from my memories and those closest to Bruce. That is when I also realized so many who had loved and cared for him, his KenCrest family, and now mourned his loss as well would have a way to share him, read about him, and hear his voice within these stories. The challenge, how to write a memoir that told the story in the most positive light while sharing painful experiences, the good, bad and ugly and not sounding resentful or bitter. Of course, there were angry moments and not sharing those would be dishonest, especially at my age of thirteen, reliving the beginning and feeling guilty having left David for college. Our parents were gone so I was not burdened with the fear of hurting them.
“Listen to Me” was Bruce’s mantra to be heard and understood as individuals with down syndrome struggle with an enlarged tongue preventing many words to be pronounced correctly. The subtitle, ‘How My Down Syndrome Brother Saved My Life’ is in reference to the voice and passion I developed throughout my life because of Bruce. It was because of the continuous need to advocate for my brother when I was younger, I eventually learned to have a voice and advocate for myself. As an adult, I had passion and a drive to make Bruce feel as normal as he could, and through that I learned patience which ultimately led me to become a teacher, coach and Administrator with the School district of Philadelphia. I don’t know what kind of life I could have had if Bruce had been born normal, perhaps I would have become a veterinarian, but I doubt it would have been as purposeful as it turned out to be.
For more than fifty- three years, Bruce lived a life full of love, laughter, community, but also pain and hardship as he battled kidney disease and pancreatic cancer. He fought his diagnosis with a smile on his face, but ultimately, cancer won. I never meant to tell this story, to share the beginning of Bruce’s and my journey. My family knew the middle and, of course the end, but not what created the drive, the fire they admired to ensure his inclusion and my guardianship. But, sometimes something or someone touches your heart, your deepest soul, and you just know their story needs to be told. The angst of not telling outweighed everything else. For those who have lived with, loved, and lost handicapped siblings and family members, I share your pain and revel in your joys. This is that story.
An Invitation to Authors: Showcase Your Work on LitLinc - Free Interviews, Articles, and More!
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The Power of Author Interviews on the LitLinc Platform: Boosting Your Online Presence and Book Visibility
In the world of literature, where countless voices compete for attention, authors often find themselves seeking effective strategies to promote their work and connect with their readership. One invaluable tool in this endeavor is the practice of author interviews, and on the LitLinc platform, these interviews take on a whole new dimension. Let's explore how author interviews on LitLinc can enhance your online presence, increase your book's visibility, and foster personal connections with readers.
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Author Interviews: Illuminating the Minds Behind Great Books"
In the literary world, author interviews have always held a special place. They offer readers a unique opportunity to peer into the minds of their favorite writers, gaining insights into the creative processes, inspirations, and personal journeys that give birth to the books they love. In this article, we'll delve into the world of author interviews, exploring their significance, benefits, and the captivating stories they unveil.
The Art of Author Interviews
Author interviews are more than just a conversation; they are a window into the creative soul of writers. These discussions provide a platform for authors to share the stories behind their stories, offering readers a glimpse of the rich tapestry of experiences that shape their work.
Benefits of Author Interviews
Personal Connection: Author interviews allow readers to connect with writers on a personal level. Through these conversations, authors become relatable, human figures rather than distant literary giants. Readers get to know the person behind the words, making their reading experience more intimate.
Deeper Understanding: Interviews delve into the motivations, themes, and characters in a book. This deeper understanding can enrich a reader's appreciation of the work and illuminate subtleties they might have missed otherwise.
Inspiration: Authors often share their own sources of inspiration during interviews. These insights can ignite creativity in aspiring writers and offer valuable lessons in storytelling.
Discovering New Authors: Author interviews introduce readers to writers they may not have encountered otherwise. These interviews serve as a bridge between the known and the unknown, expanding the horizons of literary exploration.
Author Interviews in the Digital Age
With the advent of the internet and digital media, author interviews have become more accessible than ever. Online platforms, podcasts, and social media have amplified the reach and impact of these conversations. Authors can now connect with a global audience, sharing their stories and perspectives with readers from diverse backgrounds.
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In the digital landscape, keywords play a pivotal role in making author interviews discoverable. Authors, publishers, and interviewers strategically employ keywords to optimize search engine visibility. By doing so, they ensure that these insightful conversations are accessible to a wider audience.
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Literary Websites: Many literary websites feature author interviews as a regular part of their content. These interviews often cover a wide range of genres and themes.
Podcasts: Podcasts dedicated to literature and author interviews have gained popularity. They provide an immersive auditory experience for those who prefer to listen rather than read.
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Bookstores and Events: Physical bookstores and literary events often host in-person author interviews, allowing readers to engage directly with writers.
Author interviews are a treasure trove of literary insight and personal stories. They bridge the gap between authors and readers, offering a deeper understanding of the books that captivate us. In today's digital age, they are more accessible than ever, making it easier for readers to connect with their favorite authors and discover new voices in the literary world. So, the next time you pick up a book you love, consider diving into the world of author interviews to enhance your reading experience and gain a deeper appreciation for the creative minds behind the word
The Power of Author Interviews: Unlocking New Dimensions in Book Promotion
Author interviews have long been a staple in the literary world, offering readers a glimpse into the minds behind their favorite books. In today's digital age, these interviews have taken on new significance, serving as a powerful tool for authors to promote their work, connect with audiences, and enhance their online presence. Let's explore the multifaceted benefits of author interviews and how they can be a game-changer in your literary journey.
Personal Connection with Readers: Author interviews allow writers to connect with their audience on a personal level. By sharing insights about your writing process, inspirations, and personal anecdotes, you humanize yourself to readers. This personal connection can turn casual readers into loyal fans, as they feel a deeper engagement with both the author and their work.
Enhanced Visibility and Reach: Interviews, especially those published online, significantly increase your visibility. They reach a wide audience beyond your existing followers, introducing your work to potential new readers. When these interviews are shared on social media, the potential for reach and engagement multiplies, further expanding your audience.
Boosting Book SEO and Online Presence: Digital interviews contribute positively to your book's Search Engine Optimization (SEO). When your name and book titles are mentioned online, especially on a well-regarded site like LitLinc, it enhances your digital footprint. This makes it easier for readers to find your books when searching online, thereby increasing your potential sales and readership.
Opportunities for In-Depth Discussion: Interviews provide a platform to discuss your work in depth. Unlike book blurbs or short descriptions, an interview can delve into themes, characters, and the backstory of your creation. This depth of discussion can intrigue readers and encourage them to explore your work further.
Building Credibility and Authority: Participating in interviews establishes you as a credible and serious author. It positions you as an authority in your genre or subject matter, which can be particularly beneficial for authors who are looking to establish themselves in a specific niche.
Networking and Collaborations: Interviews often open doors to new networking opportunities and collaborations. Other authors, publishers, and literary enthusiasts take notice of your work, which can lead to future collaborations, invitations to literary events, or even publishing opportunities.
A Tool for Reflection and Self-Analysis: The process of answering interview questions can be a reflective exercise for authors. It encourages you to think critically about your work, goals, and the journey you've undertaken. This reflection can be invaluable in shaping your future writing endeavors.
Author interviews are more than just promotional tools; they are a window into the soul of your work and an invitation to readers to explore your literary world. They are an integral part of building a successful author brand in the modern literary marketplace.
By engaging in interviews, you not only promote your current work but also lay the groundwork for future projects. Whether you're a seasoned author or a new writer on the scene, embracing the power of interviews can significantly impact your literary journey.
Remember, platforms like LitLinc are here to help you in this journey, offering free and accessible ways to get your story out there. Embrace the opportunity and let your voice be heard!
Love in Words and Music (Who I am, what I do, and oh Lord, what have I gone and done now)
I’m an old guy, a dreaded boomer, a curmudgeonly curmudgeon; someone who has seen it all and seen too much. I am a Woodstock baby, a bleeding heart, a dinosaur who doesn’t have a clue about how things should be done now. I am more wizened than wise and straddle the fine line between eccentric and obstreperous.
I hate the superficiality of social media. I hate it more that people love it. I hate it more still that people no one should know are famous for hyperbole and the superfluous use of the word epic.
I hate reality TV. My kids love The Bachelor. In my admittedly outré world, the happy couple would be forced to stay married at least ten years and work their crummy jobs while their luster faded. Should they fail, they would spend the remainder of the ten years in the same jail cell. Live and in color!
Well…
I have written eight books of fiction. No two are alike. I do not write in a single genre. I used to think this was a good thing. I have written social satire, sci-fi/fantasy, and Americana.
Despite such prescient limitations and consequent dyspepsia, I decided to write a love story, an honest-to-God, dyed-in-the-wool love story filled with hugging-and-kissing-and-houghmagandy (look it up).
I will, of course, be revealed as a sap, a quasi-whimsical romantic yearning for irretrievable youth, as opposed to the erudite elder statesman I yearn to be. So be it.
It gets even weirder.
Not only was my inclination to pen an epic tale of man-woman amour, I decided to write the whole thing in dialogue—an entire novel. Nearly 9000 lines. I recently wrote a short story collection in dialogue and had an epiphany that I was onto something—or else my Doritos came from ergot-infested corn.
I just hope Nora Roberts doesn’t puke in her oatmeal.
There you have it. Love in Words and Music. My paean to intransigence.
Ah, but what a lovely web I’ve woven, a lifelong affair filled with humor, affection, and abiding devotion. Spicy and sweet like the Honey Bar-B-Q at B-Dubs.
Ain’t life grand.
P.S. Special eBook introductory price. A buck. What a bargain! Buy it. Make an old man smile.